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SECRET UK EYES A
grouped directly under HQBF. A further study (the 'Top Down Study')
is being carried out concurrent with the 1993 Review. It will seek to
produce a plan to reduce the size of headquarters in Hong Kong,
commensurate with the reductions in overall Garrison numbers.
[[This will be expanded in later iterations of the 1993 Review; but it
is anticipated that this study will consider reductions in such areas
as the number of star posts, the RN and RAF headquarters, together
with HQ BFHK, and HQ 48 Gurkha Infantry Brigade. The major conclusions
the study will be incorporated into the 1993 Review Paragraph
may need amendment to take account of this study. ]]
32. The 1991 Review envisaged the removal of the brigade headquarters
when the Garrison reduced to a single battalion. Subsequently, control
of land forces before reinforcement would be exercised direct from
HQBF, which would retain the ability to deploy a small tactical
headquarters if required. Current HQ BFHK plans envisage HQ 48 Gurkha
Infantry Brigade and Hong Kong Garrison remaining operational until
December 1996, although its size will reduce as appropriate. There
will continue to be a need for an Army Garrison Headquarters to
implement the detail of the HQBF HK withdrawal plan and carry out the
practical management and handover of the defence estate to the end.
33.
The RN and RAF HQS have recently been subject to external audit
and approval. These HQS could remain in being until 1997 and will be
20
SECRET UK EYES A
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